Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic ZS40

Following is a detailed analysis of the Olympus E-P3 versus Panasonic ZS40, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a noticeable difference between the image resolutions of the E-P3 (12MP) and ZS40 (18MP) and the E-P3 (Four Thirds) and ZS40 (1/2.3") boast different sensor dimensions.

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The E-P3 was introduced 3 years earlier than the ZS40 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a complete comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the E-P3 grades versus the ZS40 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-P3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-P3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P3 has got physical measurements of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") and a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS40 has measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P3 versus Panasonic ZS40 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-P3 against the ZS40.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the E-P3 and ZS40 is 86 and 90 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizes merely by going over technical specs. The pic below will provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P3 and ZS40.

As you can tell, both of those cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-P3 using its bigger sensor is going to make shooting bokeh simpler and the Panasonic ZS40 will offer more detail using its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The more aged E-P3 is going to be behind in sensor tech.